Fenestraz unsurprised by rapid Rowland: 'He's at the level of Verstappen'

Sacha Fenestraz believes Nissan team-mate Oliver Rowland on his "best days" is "at the level" of three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen, who is currently dominating F1 for Red Bull.

Since the introduction of the current regulations in 2022, Verstappen has faced minimal competition. Currently, he is in a different league to his opposition and has demonstrated exceptional one-lap and race pace.

In Formula E, though, Fenestraz is certain that Rowland is of the same pedigree as the Dutchman. Rowland's Formula E career looked over after leaving Mahindra mid-season last year, but has been rejuvenated since returning to Nissan.

The Briton has claimed two pole positions in the last three races and has claimed three consecutive rostrums. Undoubtedly, Rowland is a genuine title contender and is one of the fastest drivers in Formula E.

"Oh yeah, definitely," Fenestraz exclusively told RacingNews365, when asked if he expected Rowland to immedietly be fast. "I mean, that's why they (Nissan) signed him back.

"There is no doubt that they wanted him back as they know his potential. And I think right now, Oliver is at his best moment in his Formula E career, with a car that he likes and a team that he knows a lot.

"And he has the experience of the championship, the package is there, so I'm not surprised.

"I know that he's at the level of Max Verstappen on his best days, definitely, so for me, it's amazing to have him onboard, there is no jealousy at all."

Rowland speed 'pushes me'

Rowland's performances this season so far have been exceptional, with Fenestraz perhaps finding himself slightly under pressure.

The French-born driver is only in his sophomore Formula E season and is yet to truly demonstrate the exceptional one-lap pace he had in 2023. However, his race pace has clearly improved.

Rather than feeling frustrated at being currently unable to match Rowland, Fenestraz is instead opting to use the current situation to become "stronger" and is learning from his experienced team-mate.

"For me, I respect him a lot," added Fenestraz. "And I can only get better from learning from him.

"So it kind of pushes me to be stronger. But also, of course, as I just said, I have to kind of realise the differences in terms of experience and just still build up my experience in Formula E